For some couples, divorce can seem inevitable. They may recognize warning signs that indicate their marriage is struggling, such as a consistent breakdown in communication, a noticeable decline in physical and emotional intimacy, or an unwillingness to confront and resolve underlying issues in the relationship. Unfortunately, some individuals may experience divorce as a complete shock, especially when their spouse unexpectedly files for it. The sudden decision can come as a profound emotional blow, leaving them feeling confused and vulnerable. However, it’s important to act quickly to protect yourself. Please continue reading as we explore what you should know if you are blindsided by your spouse’s choice to file and why connecting with our determined Monmouth County Divorce & Separation Attorneys is in your best interest.
What Can I Expect When My Spouse Files for Divorce?
When faced with an unexpected divorce in New Jersey, it’s essential to take immediate action rather than adopting a passive stance. The initial shock and emotional turmoil can be overwhelming, but it’s crucial to approach the situation strategically to maximize your chances of a favorable outcome.
First, your spouse will need to have the divorce papers served on you by a process server, meaning they must be delivered to you personally. Generally, anyone who is not directly in your divorce can serve the papers. An unexpected divorce filing can put you on a tight timeline, making it harder to handle the emotional aspects of divorce and comply with filing deadlines.
If you have been served with divorce papers in New Jersey, it’s important to understand that you only have 30 days to file your response, so you must act quickly. If you fail to file within this timeframe, you may be confronted with a default judgment, meaning the court will grant your spouse everything they have requested in the complaint. Nevertheless, after the process server has delivered the necessary legal papers, you should take your time to carefully go through them.
What Steps Should I Take if My Spouse Unexpectedly Files for Divorce?
If your spouse asks you for a divorce, or if you have been served with divorce paperwork, it’s in your best interest to consult a skilled divorce attorney who can help you understand your rights and options moving forward. One major aspect of divorce is dividing joint property. As such, you should gather financial information so you have a full understanding of your individual and marital finances to recognize a fair distribution of assets. If you have children, you should address your parental responsibilities and time. If one party plans on moving out of the family home, you will need a temporary parenting agreement.
As you can see, by being proactive and informed, you can better protect your rights and begin to rebuild your life after divorce. At Paone Zaleski & Murphy, we are prepared to help you navigate the complexities of this legal process and ensure that your interests are represented. Connect with our firm today to learn how we can fight for you.
